When planning to tow a fifth-wheel trailer, one of the biggest decisions is whether to use a diesel or gas-powered pickup truck. For RVers, this choice goes beyond fuel preference—it determines capability, comfort, and even the overall travel experience. Fifth-wheels are some of the heaviest RVs on the market, often ranging from 8,000 pounds to over 20,000 pounds. The pickup truck tasked with towing must not only pull that weight but also manage braking, acceleration, and stability across varied terrain. The debate between diesel and gas pickups has been ongoing for decades, with passionate advocates on both sides. Diesel trucks are lauded for their immense torque and long-term durability, while gas trucks often win over buyers with lower purchase costs, simpler maintenance, and accessibility. Choosing between them is not just about horsepower numbers—it’s about aligning your truck with your fifth-wheel, your lifestyle, and your travel goals.
The Power of Torque: Diesel Dominance Explained
Torque is the single most critical factor when towing heavy loads, and this is where diesel pickups shine. Diesel engines produce high levels of torque at low RPMs, giving them exceptional pulling power right off the line. For fifth-wheel owners hauling trailers exceeding 12,000 pounds, this torque advantage translates into smoother acceleration, easier uphill climbs, and greater stability when merging or passing on the highway.
Diesel trucks are also built for long-haul towing. Their engines are designed to handle heavy loads for extended periods without overheating or straining, making them the go-to choice for full-time RVers who spend thousands of miles on the road each year. Add in features like exhaust brakes, which help control downhill speeds and reduce wear on traditional braking systems, and it’s easy to see why diesel remains the preferred choice for many heavy-duty towers.
However, diesel’s strengths come at a cost. Initial purchase prices are higher, and ongoing maintenance—such as fuel filters, diesel exhaust fluid, and complex emissions systems—can add up. Yet for those hauling larger luxury fifth-wheels, the performance benefits often outweigh the expense.
Gas Pickups: Affordable and Accessible Power
Gas-powered pickups occupy a different niche in the towing world. While they can’t match diesel torque numbers, modern gas engines have grown increasingly capable, especially in the three-quarter-ton category. Many gas trucks now boast towing capacities between 10,000 and 14,000 pounds, making them more than sufficient for mid-size fifth-wheels and lighter models designed for half-ton or three-quarter-ton towing.
The biggest advantage of gas pickups is cost. They’re typically several thousand dollars less expensive upfront than diesel counterparts, both in purchase price and maintenance. Oil changes are cheaper, repairs are simpler, and you won’t have to worry about diesel exhaust fluid. Gasoline itself is also more widely available in rural areas, which can make travel easier in some regions. For seasonal travelers or weekend campers who only tow a few thousand miles per year, a gas truck often makes more sense. The fuel efficiency gap between gas and diesel widens during non-towing use, so for drivers using their trucks as daily commuters, gas can be the more practical and budget-friendly option.
Fuel Economy and Long-Term Costs
Fuel economy is another area where diesel trucks hold a distinct advantage. When towing, diesels often achieve significantly better miles per gallon than gas engines, especially with heavy loads. Over long distances, this efficiency can translate into meaningful savings at the pump. For example, while a gas truck may drop into the single digits when towing a large fifth-wheel, a diesel may still achieve 12–14 mpg under the same conditions.
That said, the initial cost of diesel fuel and the added expense of maintenance complicate the equation. For RVers who tow frequently and cover thousands of miles annually, the improved efficiency can eventually offset these costs. But for occasional campers, the savings may never fully balance out.
Gas trucks, while less fuel-efficient under load, generally offer lower operating costs for those who spend more time driving without a trailer. This makes them attractive to travelers who use their trucks year-round for errands, commuting, or light hauling in addition to towing their RVs. In the long-term cost equation, usage patterns matter just as much as raw fuel economy numbers.
Ride Quality, Noise, and Everyday Usability
The choice between diesel and gas also affects the driving experience beyond towing. Diesel engines, with their heavy-duty construction, often produce more engine noise and vibration, although modern advancements have made them significantly quieter than older models. They also tend to deliver a firmer ride due to heavier suspension components designed for maximum towing capacity.
Gas pickups are often smoother and quieter for everyday driving, making them more appealing for those who use their truck as a primary vehicle. They warm up faster in cold climates, making them more convenient in northern regions. Parking, maneuvering, and general drivability can also feel more user-friendly with gas-powered pickups, particularly for drivers unaccustomed to the heft of a diesel truck.
These differences may seem small, but for owners who spend more time behind the wheel than parked at campgrounds, everyday usability can become a deciding factor. It’s not just about pulling a trailer; it’s about living with the truck when the fifth-wheel is unhitched.
Matching the Right Truck to the Right Fifth-Wheel
Ultimately, the decision comes down to the weight and size of your fifth-wheel. For large luxury rigs weighing upwards of 15,000 pounds, a diesel truck is the clear choice. The torque, braking systems, and long-haul durability provide peace of mind and safety that gas engines simply can’t replicate at that level. Full-timers and long-distance travelers almost always benefit from investing in diesel power. For mid-size or lighter fifth-wheels in the 8,000–12,000 pound range, gas pickups can be perfectly capable when paired with proper equipment. Many models designed as half-ton or three-quarter-ton towables are built with gas-powered trucks in mind, balancing size with weight to remain accessible. For seasonal or part-time travelers, the cost savings of a gas truck may far outweigh the performance benefits of diesel.
Truck manufacturers often publish detailed towing guides that match truck configurations to trailer weights. Consulting these resources, along with a trusted RV dealer, ensures the right fit. The pairing of truck and trailer is one of the most important safety decisions RVers can make, and cutting corners here can result in stress or dangerous driving conditions.
Looking Ahead: Evolving Technology in Towing
The diesel versus gas debate is evolving as manufacturers introduce new technologies. Modern gas engines are becoming more powerful and efficient, while diesel engines are refining emissions systems and reducing noise. Hybrid and electric trucks are beginning to enter the conversation as well, offering glimpses of a future where towing might involve instant torque without reliance on traditional fuels.
For now, however, the choice remains between two proven options. Diesel trucks will continue to dominate the heavy-hauling sector, while gas pickups provide a practical entry point for lighter fifth-wheel owners. As RVing grows in popularity, the competition between diesel and gas technologies will likely lead to even better solutions for towing performance, efficiency, and driver comfort.
The Road You Choose
Deciding between a diesel or gas pickup for fifth-wheel towing is more than a technical choice—it’s a lifestyle decision. It’s about how often you plan to tow, how heavy your trailer is, and how you want your truck to serve you outside of camping. For some, the raw power and long-distance capability of a diesel make it the obvious answer. For others, the affordability and daily usability of a gas truck better match their reality. Both options have their strengths, and both can open the door to unforgettable journeys. The key is aligning your truck with your trailer and your travel goals. Once that balance is struck, the open road is yours to explore—powered by whichever engine best fits your adventure.
